LINCOLN, Neb. – Just a couple of days removed from pitching a nine-inning shutout against Big Ten rival Ohio State, Nebraska senior starting pitcher Brett Sears has solidified himself as a top pitcher in the country.
A right-hander from Westphalia, Iowa, Sears has been a key player for the Nebraska Huskers this season. He boasts a perfect 6-0 record with an outstanding 1.14 ERA and 57 strikeouts in 55 1/3 innings over eight starts. Sears has consistently delivered quality performances, including seven quality starts and a trio of at least eight-inning outings.
Sears’ dominance on the mound extends beyond just wins and strikeouts. He leads the nation in WHIP (0.67), ranks third nationally in ERA (1.14), and sits sixth in hits allowed per nine innings (4.27). His ability to control the game and keep opposing batters at bay has been a driving force behind Nebraska’s success this season.
Despite his impressive stats, Sears remains humble and focused on the team’s success. He understands the importance of his role as a leader on the team and strives to set a positive example on and off the field. Sears’ dedication to the game and his team has not gone unnoticed, earning him a spot on the Golden Spikes Award Watch List.
“I just love to compete, and I don’t like to lose for my guys,” Sears said. “I trust them when I’m going out, I do it for them.”
The Golden Spikes Award is one of the most prestigious honors in college baseball, recognizing the top amateur player in the United States based on athletic ability, sportsmanship, character and overall contribution to the sport.
Sears’ journey to success at Nebraska has been marked by hard work and determination.
Before joining the Huskers, Sears played two seasons at Western Illinois and one year at Iowa Central Community College. His experience at Iowa Central earned him NJCAA Division II Third Team All-American recognition in 2022.
At Iowa Central, Sears tallied an impressive 11-3 record with six complete games in 14 starts. He recorded a 3.06 ERA with 114 strikeouts in 85 1/3 innings of work, showcasing his ability to dominate on the mound. Sears’ performance at Iowa Central caught the attention of the Nebraska coaching staff, leading to his transfer to the Huskers.
“We thought that he could be a high-leverage piece for us,” Nebraska coach Will Bolt said. “It’s been well documented that that decision has worked out well for us.”
Sears’ success on the field isn’t just some sort of natural, God-given talent. He puts in the work to achieve his success.
“His preparation is second to none,” Bolt said. “He gets greedy when he’s on the mound, and that’s what you want from your starting pitcher.”
Sears’ on-the-field success is matched by his dedication to academics and personal growth. He has been named to the Nebraska Scholar-Athlete Honor Roll, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in all aspects of his life.
Off the field, he is a role model and leader in the community. He is actively involved in community service and strives to make a positive impact wherever he goes. His passion for helping others extends beyond the baseball diamond.
As Sears continues to impress on the mound, he remains focused on the team’s ultimate goal of winning a national championship. His leadership, skill set and dedication make him a standout player and a deserving candidate for the Golden Spikes Award.
Sears’ journey so far is a testament to his hard work, determination, and passion for the game.